Category Archives: News

Seattle, Washington, March 22, 2019 –  NewSchool of Architecture & Design (NewSchool) has collaborated with City of Seattle Office of the Waterfront, Mackenzie Inc. (Architecture / Engineering / Interiors / Planning), Heartland LLC, KPFF Consulting Engineering, Brightworks Sustainability, and U.S. CAD to explore redevelopment in the Seattle Waterfront Area.

Over the last two academic quarters, 56 4th-year Integrated Design Studio students from San Diego’s NewSchool of Architecture & Design, in collaboration with integrated design firm, Mackenzie, entered the ongoing conversation about contemporary directions in urban design and architecture, specifically along the Seattle Waterfront. Under the direction of NewSchool Assistant Professor Daniela Deutsch, professional practice and academic pursuits were integrated through a unique and dynamic association between multiple parties from academia, the design profession, and real estate development. The NewSchool students created projects that fully integrate all major building and urban systems while simultaneously addressing the current human, social, and environmental issues faced by the city of Seattle.

NewSchool’s Integrated Design Studio consists of lectures by experts, technical workshops, and studio work. The studio also combines the holistic urban and district planning with integrated design solutions on the building level and addresses architecture and development, transit-oriented urban areas, sustainable neighborhoods, and energy efficient building design. The project’s aim is to develop into a viable strategy for city communities and revitalization, as well as communicate, via their technical systems, materiality and programmatic optimization, that architecture is capable to address current social and ecological challenges and deliver an innovative solution. Students will present their master plans to the public and media on March 26^th in Seattle.

Learn more about this exciting student and industry collaboration at a special Gallery Exhibit and Open House on March 26^th in Seattle, WA:

WHEN: Tuesday, March 26, 2019 (free to the public)

1:00 – 4:00 PM: GALLERY EXHIBIT & OPEN HOUSE

Presentations from students and studio instructors Daniela Deutsch and Itay Friedman will take place at 3:00 PM.

4:00 – 7:00 PM: RECEPTION

Following the presentations, join us for a reception for a chance to mix and mingle while sampling a variety of light snacks and hors d’oeuvres. Students and faculty will further discuss the projects and integrated design studio experience. Refreshments will be served from 5:00 – 7:00 PM.

WHERE: Waterfront Space, 1400 Western Ave., Seattle, WA 98101

“What’s special about this project is the confluence of three major architectural concentrations: architectural design, real estate development, and construction engineering,” said NewSchool faculty leader Daniela Deutsch. “While these topics often remain part of specialized programs or elective studios, our philosophy is that they must be treated as equally relevant and opened to discussion and research for each student of architecture in an accredited program before they finish their diploma. In our program, the goal is achieved by developing an integrated design approach in the framework of a mandatory Integrated Design Project.”

The complete collaborative team this year, consists of:

• Mackenzie Inc. (Architecture/Engineering/Interiors/Planning)
• City of Seattle Office of the Waterfront, Mackenzie Inc. (Architecture / Engineering / Interiors / Planning)
• Heartland LLC,
• KPFF Consulting Engineering
• Brightworks Sustainability
• S. CAD
• NewSchool of Architecture & Design students and faculty, including Daniela Deutsch, Amin Espandiari, Itay Friedman, and Julio Medina.

For more information on NewSchool of Architecture & Design please contact Jessica Nielsen at jnielsen@newschoolarch.edu.

About NewSchool of Architecture & Design

Located in San Diego’s design district, NewSchool of Architecture & Design prepares students for career success in design fields with an emphasis on human-centered design, including interdisciplinary and global design skills, industry collaborations and real-world projects. NewSchool offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in architecture and construction management as well as undergraduate degrees in product design, graphic design & interactive media, and interior architecture and design. NewSchool is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. NewSchool’s Bachelor and Master of Architecture programs are accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). One of more than 70 institutions in 25 countries that comprise the Laureate International Universities network, NewSchool prepares students to successfully work in global and diverse organizations. For more information, visit www.newschoolarch.edu.

Mackenzie is a returning collaborator along with other industry professionals participating in NewSchool’s 2018-2019 Integrated Design Studio. For more information on Mackenzie and participation with this unique studio, please contact Michael Chen at mchen@mcknze.com.

About Mackenzie

Mackenzie is a provider of professional design services comprised of professionals in architecture and interior design; structural, civil and traffic engineering; land use and transportation planning; and landscape architecture. Anchored in the foundational elements of high performance and client focus, Mackenzie brings a deep expertise in commercial office, healthcare, community infrastructure, education, institutional, federal, high tech, public building, industrial, retail, community planning, and mixed-use projects. For more information, please visit www.mcknze.com or call 206.749.9993.

Graphic By Sean Bosworth & Bryan Edwards

SAN DIEGO March 1, 2019 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has announced the elevation of two AIA San Diego architects to its prestigious College of Fellows, an honor awarded to members who have made significant contributions to the profession of architecture.

Mitra Kanaani, Professor of Graduate Architecture at NewSchool of Architecture & Design, and Steven H. Shinn, Project Manager and Project Architect at Gensler, are amongst an elite subset of AIA members to be distinguished with this honor. Fewer than three percent of AIA’s membership of more than 94,000 are designated fellows.

The fellowship program was developed to elevate those architects who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession and made a significant contribution in one of several categories – design, practice, education or service to society.

Kanaani and Shinn were selected by the seven-member Jury of Fellows for having distinguished themselves in the categories of education and service to society, respectively.

Mitra Kanaani has advanced design excellence through teaching, leadership, administration, scholarship, mentorship, practice, activism, humanitarianism and service to the University, profession and community at national and international levels. Her work has elevated NewSchooI to national prominence.

Through his civic engagement, Steven Shinn has integrated the values of preservation, sustainability and livable communities into the urban fabric by proactively involving the public, government entities, the building community and academia through advocacy and education.

Kanaani and Shinn will be honored at a ceremony on June 7th at the AIA Conference on Architecture 2019 in Las Vegas.

About The American Institute of Architects, San Diego

The mission of AIA San Diego is to promote the profession of architecture in San Diego and support members in professional excellence. AIA San Diego and AIA Palomar represent nearly 1,000 members in the San Diego region. Founded in 1928, AIA San Diego has a distinguished track record of vigorous advocacy for design, planning, sustainability, architecture education, professional development and civic leadership.

SAN DIEGO, CA – NewSchool of Architecture & Design (NewSchool) is proudly teaming up with the Women In Architecture Palomar Chapter (WIA|P) and the Women In Architecture San Diego Chapter (WIA|SD) to host the two-part WIA|P 2018 Summer Film Fest. Part 1 of the festival is free and open to the public. The festival will take place Thursday, June 14, 2018 from 5:30PM. – 9:00PM on the NewSchool campus, located at 705 Park Blvd. in downtown San Diego. Interested attendees for this week’s free event may RSVP online at https://www.aiapalomar.org/event/wiafilmfest2018.

WHO: NewSchool of Architecture & Design and Women in Architecture & Design

WHAT: The Women In Architecture 2018 Summer Film Fest.
Film selections include both short and long film lengths and a special feature film focusing on the voices of women worldwide who uplift the built environment as architects, designers and industry leaders.

WHEN: Thursday, June 14, 2018
5:30pm – 9:00pm (free to the public)
Doors open for registration at 5:00pm

WHERE: NewSchool of Architecture Art Gallery
705 Park Blvd. | San Diego, CA 92101

CONTACT: Jessica Nielsen
NewSchool of Architecture & Design
(619) 684-8847 | jnielsen@newschoolarch.edu

About NewSchool of Architecture & Design

Located in San Diego’s design district, NewSchool of Architecture & Design prepares students for career success in design fields with an emphasis on human-centered design, including interdisciplinary and global design skills, industry collaborations and real-world projects. NewSchool offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in architecture and construction management as well as undergraduate degrees in product design, graphic design & interactive media, and interior architecture and design. NewSchool is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. NewSchool’s Bachelor and Master of Architecture programs are accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Best College Reviews.org ranked NewSchool #2 for Best Online Masters in Construction Management Degree Programs for 2017-2018.

One of more than 70 institutions in 25 countries that comprise the Laureate International Universities network, NewSchool prepares students to successfully work in global and diverse organizations. For more information, visit www.newschoolarch.edu.

About Women in Architecture

The mission of AIA WIA is to support all women in architecture and design, help build their voice, and highlight their work in creating the built environment. AIA Palomar is fueled by the synergetic relationships between design professionals, building industry representatives, students, and the general public who attend our myriad of events in Northern San Diego County from the regions between Del Mar and Ramona; and from the San Diego city limits to the border of Orange County.  The AIA Palomar Chapter is a grassroots effort that provides a forum to our community for sharing information, ideas, and resources.  Our special events, tours, and continuing education opportunities promote the exchange of knowledge which is relevant to today’s practitioners.  Together, architects have a strength that is difficult to achieve as individuals.  Through our chapter, Architects unite to demonstrate their commitment to personal and professional development while giving the AIA an even stronger voice for the architectural profession.

SAN DIEGO, CA – NewSchool of Architecture & Design (NewSchool) is proud to present their annual GradShow showcasing thesis projects and final portfolios from the 2018 graduating class. The exhibition highlights the disciplines from the variety of programs offered at NewSchool including architecture, construction management, and design (interior architecture & design, product design, and media design). The event typically features over 100 individual projects comprised of large-scale renderings, models and digital media highlighting the best work of each alumni being displayed. See https://newschoolarch.edu/events/gradshow-2018/ or RSVP at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gradshow-2018-tickets-45951396865

WHO: NewSchool of Architecture & Design

WHAT: NewSchool will host their annual GradShow. This showcase kicks off with an Employers Only Event from 12:00PM – 2:30PM. This job fair-like atmosphere will provide companies and local press access to the talented individuals being exhibited. Many individuals graduating from NewSchool have secured employment during this event and employers attending have benefited from being able to scout the next generation of innovative leaders in one convenient location. The GradShow concludes the special day with a spectacular hosted celebration of accomplishment from 6:00PM – 9:00PM for our graduates, their families, friends and the community at NewSchool to enjoy and revel in their achievements.

WHEN: Friday, June 22, 2018 (free to public)
12:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Employer & Press Only Event
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Friends & Family Event, Press & Community Welcome

WHERE: NewSchool of Architecture & Design
1249 F Street | San Diego, CA 92101

RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gradshow-2018-tickets-45951396865

CONTACT: Jessica Nielsen
NewSchool of Architecture & Design
(619) 684-8847 | jnielsen@newschoolarch.edu

About NewSchool of Architecture & Design

Located in San Diego’s design district, NewSchool of Architecture & Design prepares students for career success in design fields with an emphasis on human-centered design, including interdisciplinary and global design skills, industry collaborations and real-world projects. NewSchool offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in architecture and construction management as well as undergraduate degrees in product design, graphic design & interactive media, and interior architecture and design. NewSchool is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. NewSchool’s Bachelor and Master of Architecture programs are accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Best College Reviews.org ranked NewSchool #2 for Best Online Master’s in Construction Management Degree Programs for 2017-2018. One of more than 70 institutions in 25 countries that comprise the Laureate International Universities network, NewSchool prepares students to successfully work in global and diverse organizations. For more information, visit www.newschoolarch.edu.

RICHARD LOUV AND ROGER SHOWLEY NAMED HONORARY DEGREE RECIPIENTS BY NEWSCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

HONORARY DEGREE RECIPIENT RICHARD LOUV WILL DELIVER COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS AT THE UNIVERSITY’S 33RD COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY ON SATURDAY, JUNE 23RD AT COPLEY SYMPHONY HALL, JACOBS MUSIC CENTER

SAN DIEGO, CA – Journalist and author, Richard Louv, and journalist Roger Showley, will receive honorary degrees at NewSchool of Architecture & Design’s 33^rd commencement exercises on Saturday, June 23 in San Diego, CA. Richard Louv will also deliver the commencement address to graduates.

President and Chief Academic Officer Marvin J. Malecha, FAIA, DPACSA, will preside over the ceremony, which will take place at the legendary Copley Symphony Hall, Jacobs Music Center. Dispensing with the formalities and extended speeches, Richard Louv will also deliver an impactful talk to equip NewSchool’s graduating class with knowledge for their future endeavors.

“NewSchool is thrilled to honor Richard Louv and Roger Showley — inspirational writers who have addressed social issues by, exploring the relationship of humanity and the built environment as well as humanity’s changing relationship with nature,” said Malecha.

The honorees are:

Richard Louv

Richard Louv is a journalist and author of nine books, including Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder, The Nature Principle: Reconnecting with Life in a Virtual Age, and most recently Vitamin N: The Essential Guide to a Nature-Rich Life: 500 Ways to Enrich Your Family’s Health & Happiness. His books have been translated into 13 languages and published in 17 countries and helped launch an international movement to connect children and their families to nature.

He is co-founder and Chairman Emeritus of the Children & Nature Network, an organization helping build the international movement to connect people and communities to the natural world. With artist Robert Bateman, he serves as honorary co-chair of Canada’s Child in Nature Alliance.

As a journalist and commentator, he has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, the Times of London, Orion, Outside and other newspapers and magazines. He was a columnist for The San Diego Union-Tribune and Parents magazine.

Roger Showley

Roger Showley retired after 44 years from the Union-Tribune in March 2018. He most recently covered growth and development, encompassing commercial real estate, planning, design, historic preservation, downtown and suburban trends, and San Diego history. A third-generation San Diegan and graduate of UC San Diego, he also has written three books on San Diego history.

Located in the heart of the design district in downtown San Diego, NewSchool of Architecture & Design, a globally recognized and awarded design university, is known for its forward-thinking professors, an inspiring campus community, and top industry connections and collaboration opportunities. NewSchool’s Class of 2018 is made up of approximately 140 innovative designers who are passionate about pursuing exciting careers in the fields of architecture, design, and construction management.

About NewSchool of Architecture & Design

Located in San Diego’s design district, NewSchool of Architecture & Design prepares students for career success in design fields with an emphasis on human-centered design, including interdisciplinary and global design skills, industry collaborations and real-world projects. NewSchool offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in architecture and construction management as well as undergraduate degrees in product design, graphic design & interactive media, and interior architecture & design. NewSchool is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. NewSchool’s Bachelor and Master of Architecture programs are accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Best College Reviews.org ranked NewSchool #2 for Best Online Masters in Construction Management Degree Programs for 2017-2018. One of more than 70 institutions in 25 countries that comprise the Laureate International Universities network, NewSchool prepares students to successfully work in global and diverse organizations. For more information, visit www.newschoolarch.edu.

SAN DIEGO, CA – NewSchool of Architecture & Design (NewSchool) is proud to name Stephen Russell (’10) its 2018 Alumni of the Year Award recipient. The executive director for the San Diego Housing Federation received this prestigious award at NewSchool’s convocation on Oct. 10.

Russell has been committed to achieving lasting, positive changes in the urban communities of San Diego for more than 20 years. As executive director of the San Diego Housing Federation, he has worked tirelessly to create and implement policies that preserve and generate affordable housing options for San Diegans. Before that, he was a project coordinator at Platt/White Architects, Inc., and an adjunct faculty member and studio instructor at the University of Southern California. He serves on the boards of the California Housing Finance Agency, Housing California, and the NewSchool Foundation. He is former board president of the City Heights Community Development Committee.

Russell entered NewSchool’s Bachelor of Architecture program with impressive experience as a senior policy advisor in the Office of Councilmember Toni Atkins and as executive director of the El Cajon Boulevard Business Improvement Association. He graduated in 2010 as class salutatorian with an emphasis in Urban Design & Sustainability.

“Stephen Russell is bringing a much-needed level of human-centered design to the problems of housing an ever-growing population within our region,” said nominator and NewSchool Professor and Special Assistant to the President of NewSchool Leonard Zegarski. “His strong principles coupled with a fierce dedication to learning through doing and a relentless work ethic combine with his general love for life … to channel energy into everything he does.”

“Stephen Russell is a true leader and fountain of knowledge who pours his heart and soul into the neighborhoods of San Diego,” according to the Board and Staff of San Diego Housing Federation. “He is a trusted source as ‘the voice for housing’ in San Diego.”

For more information about the NewSchool of Architecture & Design Alumni of the Year Award, please contact Jessica Nielsen at jnielsen@newschoolarch.edu.

About NewSchool of Architecture & Design:

Located in San Diego’s design district, NewSchool of Architecture & Design prepares students for career success in design fields with an emphasis on human-centered design, including interdisciplinary and global design skills, industry collaborations and real-world projects. Programs include architecture, construction management, product design, graphic design & interactive media, and interior architecture & design. NewSchool is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission and offers Bachelor and Master of Architecture programs, accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). NewSchool prepares students to successfully work in global and diverse organizations. For more information, visit www.newschoolarch.edu.

SAN DIEGO – Open House San Diego™ (OH! SDTM) 2018, a program of the San Diego Architectural Foundation (SDAF), has released its full list of over 80 must-see architectural sites located throughout Bankers Hill, Balboa Park, Downtown, Barrio Logan, and new this year, Point Loma. The popular citywide architecture and urban design event offers FREE, behind-the-scenes tours of San Diego’s never-before-seen buildings and historic landmarks the weekend of March 24 & 25. OH! SD is San Diego’s largest architectural event, with well over 10,000 site visits anticipated.

Honorary Co-chairs are Gordon Carrier, FAIA of Carrier Johnson + CULTURE and Jennifer Luce, FAIA of Luce et Studio. Title Sponsor is Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty.

“Everyone, including local residents, families, students and out-of-town visitors, is welcome to attend,” said Susanne Friestedt, Founder, OH! SD.

Each OH! SD site has an original feature, or its own unique story: innovative use of materials, repurposing of space, environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, or unique use of public areas. Spaces such as architecture and design studios, museums, schools, hotels, high-rises, and SDAF Orchid Award winners, as well as historically designated sites are featured.

“Attendees must check in and receive a collectible Passport at one of the OH! SD Hubs located in each neighborhood,” said Maxine Ward, AIA, Event Chair and former Board Chair, SDAF. “Then, their Passport will be stamped at each site they visit. All attendees may enter the OH! SD’s juried architectural photography competition, with prizes in a variety of categories.”

All sites will be open to the public, while select ones will offer guided tours on a first-come, first-served basis, or may require advance reservations. Most locations will be open from 10 AM – 4 PM.

>>Learn more about OH! San Diego

Participating sites:

Balboa Park

Timken Museum of Art
Mingei International Museum – OH! SD Hub
San Diego Museum of Art
Spanish Village Art Center
The Palisades

Bankers Hill

First Presbyterian Church of San Diego
St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral
First Church of Christ, Scientist
RJC Architects
The Abbey on Fifth Avenue
Parq West – OH! SD Hub
Hawthorne Historic Inn
DGA Planning Architecture
The Louie
Ohr Shalom Synagogue
Gruenberg Law Office
The Barcelona

Downtown

WeWork B Street
Santa Fe Train Depot – OH! SD Hub
Herb & Wood
SDSU Downtown Gallery at Electra
Amici House
PATH Connections Housing
American Institute of Architects
Maritime Museum
LIND Block (Little Italy Neighborhood Development)
San Diego Law Library
Downtown Works
John Rhoades Federal Judicial Center Walking Tour
Waterfront Park

Gaslamp

The US Grant Hotel
Courtyard by Marriot San Diego Downtown
The Keating Hotel
The New Children’s Museum
San Diego Chinese Historical Museum
Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House
Gaslamp Architectural Walking Tour
Sparks Gallery
Horton Plaza Park – OH! SD Hub
San Diego Magazine Headquarters
The Historic Spreckels Theatre
Gensler

East Village

NewSchool of Architecture & Design
Basile Studio
BNIM Architects
AVRP Skyport
e3 Civic High
SMARTS Farm
You & Yours Distilling Co.
Makers Quarter
Baker Nowicki Design Studio
San Diego Central Library @ Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common – OH! SD Hub
Urban Discovery Academy
Sempra Energy Headquarters
Noonan Lance Boyer & Banach LLP

Barrio Logan

La Esquina
BasileIE + CM Curatorial
Barrio Barns
Tecture
Chicano Park
Woodbury University School of Architecture
Mercado del Barrio
LPA Inc.
Bread & Salt – OH! SD Hub

Point Loma

All Souls’ Episcopal Church
The Thursday Club
Point Loma Hervey Branch Library
Point Loma Assembly – OH! SD Hub
Point Loma Living Room
Point Loma Nazarene University:
Mieras Hall
Latter Hall + Sator Hall
Fire Station 22
Loma Theatre
Pacific Rim Park
Tunaman’s Memorial
Portuguese Historical Center
UPSES Chapel
St. Agnes Catholic Church
ARTS DISTRICT Liberty Station – OH! SD Hub:
Building 200/Dick Laub NTC Command Center
Building 208/The North Chapel
Building 35/The Luce Auditorium/The Lot
Scout @ Quarters D
The Rock Church
Moniker Commons
Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty Liberty Station Office
Stone Brewing World Bistro Gardens
KMA Architecture
Naval Base Point Loma

>>Learn more about OH! San Diego

Women in Construction Week | March 4-10, 2018

In an industry that employs more than 10 million people in the United States, women make up merely 9% of the workforce.

NewSchool is proud to be breaking the mold.

In Winter 2018, women make up 23% of the total Construction Management population at NewSchool of Architecture & Design, more than two and a half times the national average.

To celebrate Women in Construction Week, we spoke with two female alumnae of our Construction Management programs and got their thoughts on what it’s like to be a woman in the construction industry.

Athena Dadiz graduated from NewSchool with a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture in 2014 and became a Master of Construction Management in 2015.

Amanda Schilling graduated from NewSchool with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management in 2016.

Why did you choose construction?

Athena: My experience at NewSchool actually led me to construction. Out of high school I started studying architecture, and in my third year I got really involved in the Construction Management program and became more interested in those classes than the ones I was taking. I decided to do the 4 year architecture program instead of the 5 year one so I could get my Master’s in Construction Management at NewSchool, too. For me, construction is where the magic happens – the cranes, the deep foundations, all the people – it is exciting! I chose construction because it really is a team sport and it is amazing to see it all come together.

Amanda: I chose construction because my dad currently works in the industry and he enjoys what he does. Once I started taking classes that were focused on my major, I became hooked. I started an internship with Hensel Phelps while I was still in school, and watching something being built from the ground up is very cool to see. There are so many components and details that go into this type of work that a lot of people don’t realize, which makes it that much more exciting for me.

Who inspires you?

Athena: I have been lucky to learn from working closely with some exceptional women. My project manager, Stephanie, inspires me because she is a young woman that is strong, intelligent, well-spoken and knows her stuff.

Amanda: My family and friends inspire me. They are who keep me motivated day to day and help me push towards my goals. Of course, my superintendent helps to push and guide me to where I want to be in my career, but ultimately my family and friends keep me motivated to do what I want to do, which is building!

What has been the most surprising part of being a woman working in construction?

Athena: I have experienced a lot of mentorship and comradery with my team and subcontractors. Onsite, it surprises me how willing people are to share their knowledge with we, be patient, and take me under their wing once they see I’m willing to learn and work hard.

Amanda: I don’t think I have been surprised by anything by my being a woman working in construction. I think if anything, the men tend to be more respectful and professional when I’m around versus when I am not.

What has been the biggest challenge?

Athena: All new project engineers deal with being young and working with people who have been in the industry for 20+ years. I have been told that I was hit with a double whammy of being young and a woman. The biggest challenge has been proving myself and reaching a shared understanding. Being in construction and being in the field, you can’t help but notice the differences in the ways that men and women interact and learn on the job. I think part of being a good leader is identifying the differences and adjusting management techniques accordingly. My impression of the construction industry is it’s very welcoming and a supportive environment for women. Good companies know that a high-performing team is a diverse team and seek female talent.

Amanda: The biggest challenge is that I will get second guessed in what I am talking about. So, I verify that the information that I am providing or talking about is accurate. Again, this is not surprising or a disadvantage to me. If anything, I’m a stronger employee than others who don’t do as much research.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in the industry?

Athena: Network and look for a mentor – it doesn’t always have to be a formal platform. Look for people who you can go to when you have an issue. Also, work on defining your own voice and building confidence in professional situations. Even if you don’t know something, you can find the answer to it.

Amanda: I would advise anyone starting out (man or woman) to be humble and stay focused. There is a lot to learn and school teaches you about 10% of what you need to know out in the field. Ask a lot of questions, work hard, do the research, and be open and willing to learn. And this is advice that people can take going into any field of work. You will know some stuff but there is SO much more to learn once you are actually living and breathing it.

Women in Construction (WIC) Week is a time to highlight women in the construction industry. By raising awareness of the many opportunities that women have in the field, emphasizing the increasingly important role they play, and giving them a platform to share their experiences, women are leading the way for diversity and change in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Across the United States, campuses are pouring money into library renovations. From gyms to cafes to makerspaces, we see growing efforts to keep libraries relevant as students diversify their information sources. These updates are sparked by the changing needs of students and the shifting definitions of academic libraries. As explored in Library Buildings 2017, “libraries these days are no longer quiet bastions filled with books, if they ever were only that. Libraries today offer beautiful and comfortable common spaces, up-to-the-minute technology…and elegant overall design that makes these institutions anchors in their communities” (p.5). As community hubs, academic libraries can provide spaces that foster creativity and innovation in support of their institution’s educational goals and mission.

The mission of NewSchool of Architecture & Design is to nurture and inspire design-minded students. It endeavors to be a vibrant educational setting where the academic community finds meaning and inspiration in the pursuit of professional goals. However as a downtown school of 500 architecture, design, and construction management students, with a library of just 2,200 square feet, space is at a premium. Although we knew our library needed attention, we recognized its limitations.

According to Bieraugel & Neil (2017) libraries need to “be mindful of the need for students to have spaces for quiet contemplation and reflection, collaboration and noisy interaction. These are places to observe, question, experiment, and network. To provide high value for students, it is important that academic libraries use their spaces to foster the highest level of…creativity and innovation” (p.50).

As a design school focused on human centeredness and design thinking, our committee of educators and design professionals began by asking, what do our students need to be successful? One white paper, twelve meetings, and innumerable discussions later, we landed on an idea. Instead of simply updating the space, we would integrate an educational element by creating a curated exhibition of celebrated design chairs. Coupled with a fact sheet outlining why each chair was significant to design history, this would serve as an educational tool, while also arguably making ours the hippest library in San Diego.

Choosing the chairs was a fun but formidable task. In addition to style and pedigree, the committee considered practicality, comfort, mobility, and of course space concerns. Some chairs were disqualified for outrageous dimensions, others for being obviously awkward. Balancing comfort and style meant going through six iterations of the chair proposal before all committee members were satisfied. This type of back and forth is time consuming, yet a hallmark of design education. Ultimately the process was hugely valuable to ensuring we had the best chairs possible for our students and our library space.

Of course, new chairs alone do not provide the wow factor expected from an expensive update, no matter how stylish they may be. Our committee set their eyes on every non-structural element of the library and, with a budget in mind, began to imagine a space worthy of the new chairs.

Everything from carpets and paint down to cushions and corkboards was game. When we finally had a plan in place, there was a lot of moving parts, and a lot of books to move. In just one week during the Christmas Break, half the collection was removed and replaced to allow renovations to take place.

Our old library, with its mismatched furniture and heavy shelving, was not exactly conducive to the multiple environments students need to flourish. We focused on what we could change, maximizing the space and creating brighter, more inviting areas. The first day of the new space, students were already spending more time in the library. They debated their favorite chair and tried to guess which was most expensive. They sat in each, one by one, and snapped pictures. The new layout included group spaces, individual tables and private study carrels to provide a range of options that students really wanted.

The first step towards encouraging library use is getting new students in the door. Come Fall of this year we will be able to compare new student use and get an idea of the impact our renovation has had. Until then, we can already see students respecting and appreciating the space. The library has been reincarnated from a depository for books and information, to a space students, faculty, staff, and visitors can enjoy while learning and researching. As one student put it “this is a place I’d like to have a party now.”

References:

Bieraugel, M. m., & Neil, S. (2017). Ascending Bloom’s Pyramid: Fostering Student
Creativity and Innovation in Academic Library Spaces. College & Research Libraries, 78(1), 35-52.
Library Buildings 2017. (2018). ILA Reporter, 36(1), 4-17.

A team of six students and two alternates from NewSchool of Architecture & Design will compete in the 31^st annual ASC Regions 6 & 7 Student Competition in Sparks, Nevada, February 7 – 10, 2018. This will be NewSchool’s sixth year at the event, and with a history of success, they hope to bring home first place in the Mixed Use category.

This is the first year NewSchool has participated in the Mixed Use competition, creating a new set of challenges for the team to tackle. The students have been preparing for Reno for the past six weeks, devoting countless hours of their nights and weekends to mock presentations and feedback sessions with faculty and industry experts.

The purpose of the competition is to provide students with an environment that simulates that of the real-life construction industry. There are two components of the Mixed Use competition:

1. The Problem: The team will be presented with a problem that assesses four major sections:

a. Scheduling

b. Estimating

c. Project Management

d. Field Management

2) The Oral Presentation: The team will be tested on its overall knowledge and understanding of the project, presentation skills, and team collaboration.

NewSchool faculty members George Welch and Steve Matley will travel to Nevada and serve as faculty coaches for the team.

After the competition is over, the final day of the event is a Job Fair, where students will have the opportunity to network with industry leaders from many of the nation’s top companies, including Balfour Beatty, PCL Construction, Kiewit, Hensel Phelps, Swinerton, and more.

NewSchool of Architecture & Design | ASC Student Competition Record

2016: First Place Region 7 Design/Build

2014: First Place Region 7 Design/Build

2013: First Place Open Virtual Design & Construction

ASC Regions 6 & 7 2018 Student Competition Summary

Participating Universities 49

Number of States 21

Total Teams 195

Number of Students on a Team 1160

Number of Alternates 253

Number of Student Volunteers 3

Total Number of Students 1443

Number of Faculty Attending 160

Number of Companies Participating in the Job Fair 103

Industry General Attendance Companies 44

Number of Registered Industry Attendees 1199

Total Number of People Registered 2848